Challenging health inequalities and empowering communities to take control of their health.
Who We Are
Phoenix Health Movement CIC is a community-driven organisation dedicated to addressing health inequalities affecting Black women and other marginalised communities. We recognise that systemic barriers, stigma, and lack of culturally competent healthcare disproportionately impact these communities, leading to poorer health outcomes.
Our mission is to challenge these disparities by providing accessible, evidence-based health information, advocating for policy change, and empowering individuals to make informed health decisions. We are committed to ensuring that every person, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or socio-economic status, has the tools and resources they need to achieve optimal health and well-being.
Leadership team
Bio
Susan is a public speaker, broadcaster, writer and strategic communicator, focused on addressing health inequities affecting people from marginalised communities.
Starting her cross sector career as a research psychologist, with time in the corporate arena, she moved on to have over two decades of leadership in the HIV and sexual health sector, spearheading innovative initiatives with national and global impact. She’s hosted award winning international broadcast series, produced unique health video campaigns & short films tailored to the information needs of marginalised communities, led successful engagement & communication strategies, and regularly speaks at conferences & events around the world.
She is a Board Member of the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+) and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Bio
Dr Vanessa Apea is a consultant physician in Genito-urinary and HIV medicine at Barts Health NHS Trust and an Honorary Senior Lecturer at Queen Mary University of London. She is also the deputy academic lead for equality, diversity and inclusion within its School of Medicine and Dentistry.
Vanessa has made reducing inequities in healthcare a central focus of her clinical work and research and has an established track record of exploring barriers to engagement in care in marginalised populations. She has a particular research interest in participatory approaches and the intersection of race, gender and health.
Vanessa is a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and a Fulbright scholar.
Our Mission
To improve health outcomes and dismantle systemic barriers that prevent equitable access to healthcare for Black women and other marginalised communities.
Our Vision
A world where health equity is a reality, and all individuals can access the healthcare they need, free from discrimination and systemic barriers.
Our Core Activities
Culturally Competent Health Education
We provide scientifically accurate health information tailored to the needs of our community through engaging platforms such as:
- Video campaigns
- Broadcasts and podcasts
- Peer-led discussion workshops
- Community engagement events
- Expert interviews
How This Helps:
- Empowers individuals to make informed health choices
- Increases awareness of health rights and available support systems
- Reduces stigma and misinformation about key health issues
Policy and Advocacy
We use lived experiences and research to advocate for systemic change by:
- Highlighting health disparities and their root causes
- Engaging with policymakers, healthcare professionals, and health leaders
- Promoting best practice guidelines for inclusive healthcare
- Galvanising community health and policy champions
How This Helps:
- Leads to improved healthcare policies and practices
- Amplifies the voices of marginalised communities in healthcare decision-making
- Ensures services are shaped to meet the real needs of those affected by inequalities
Raising Awareness & Public Engagement
We drive conversations on health inequities and the actions needed to address them by:
- Utilising media and social media platforms
- Hosting community events and public speaking engagements
- Running advocacy campaigns to end health inequalities
How This Helps:
- Educates communities on how they can take action for their health and well-being
- Encourages healthcare professionals and decision-makers to adopt better practices
- Shifts public perceptions and promotes accountability for health equity
Research and Evidence-Based Insights
We conduct and support research to better understand the root causes of health inequalities and develop actionable solutions by:
- Collaborating with academic institutions and health organisations
- Gathering and analysing data on health disparities
- Publishing reports and policy briefs to inform best practices
How This Helps:
- Provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and healthcare providers
- Strengthens community advocacy efforts with credible data
- Identifies emerging health trends and effective intervention strategies
Who We Support
Our work primarily supports:
- Black and racially minoritised women affected by health inequalities
- Migrants navigating healthcare systems
- People living with HIV
- LGBTQ+ communities
- Other marginalised groups experiencing intersecting barriers to good health
Join Us in the Movement
Health equity is a collective responsibility. We invite individuals, organisations, and stakeholders to collaborate with us in creating a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system. Whether you’re looking for reliable health information, want to support our advocacy efforts, or are interested in community engagement, we welcome you to be part of the Phoenix Health Movement.
Together, we rise. Together, we reclaim our health.
Join Us on Social Media
Phoenix Health Movement CIC – Registered in England, N.O. 16059785
Registered Office: 7 Bell Yard, London, England, WC2A 2JR